Breanna Stewart, arguably one of the most successful and recognizable players in UConn women’s basketball history, returned to Storrs on Sunday, February 7th for a special appearance before the UConn vs. South Carolina game at Gampel Pavilion.
Stewart was the star of UConn’s four consecutive national championship teams from 2013-2016 and carried the Huskies to a perfect 38-0 season in 2016. During her time at UConn, Stewart managed to accumulate numerous accolades, including four consecutive Final Four Most Outstanding Player awards, three Wade Trophies, two Naismith College Player of the Year awards, and the Associated Press Player of the Year award in 2014, 2015, and 2016.
Off the court, Stewart always represented UConn with class and poise, and her return to campus was a special moment for fans and even her old coaches and teammates. During a pre-game ceremony, Stewart spoke to the crowd and shared her appreciation for the incredible memories and opportunities she had as a member of the UConn community.
But as special as her appearance was, Stewart made it clear that the game was about the Huskies on the court. She sat courtside and watched as the current UConn team faced off against top-ranked South Carolina in front of a sold-out crowd of fans who were eager to witness a possible championship preview. The game ended up being a tough test for the Huskies, but they ultimately fell 63-59 to the Gamecocks.
Regardless of the result, Stewart’s appearance reminds us all of the impact she continues to have on the UConn community as a whole. Her incredible success on the court brought a newfound excitement and notoriety to the program that continues to thrive even in her absence. Her grace, humility, and outstanding leadership have also helped to set the standard for future generations of UConn women’s basketball players, further cementing her place in the program’s storied history.
While there is no doubt that Stewart’s career will be remembered for years to come, her homecoming serves as a reminder to appreciate the incredible players who have helped build some of the best women’s basketball teams in the country. Her return to Gampel Pavilion was a celebration of her own legacy while also paying tribute to one of the most successful teams in college basketball history.